St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, serves as the Pro-Cathedral of the Diocese of Bethlehem. Established in 1817, it stands as one of the oldest Episcopal congregations in the region.
Architectural Significance
The current church building, completed in 1897 and consecrated in 1899, was designed by Philadelphia architect Charles M. Burns in the Romanesque Revival style. This architectural approach is characterized by robust stonework, rounded arches, and a sense of monumental scale. Notably, the church features a prominent tower that contributes significantly to the city’s skyline. The edifice is part of the River Street Historic District, which includes 250+ contributing buildings showcasing various architectural styles, including Beaux Arts and Gothic Revival.
Historical Context
Over its history, St. Stephen’s has undergone several relocations and reconstructions. The present structure is the fifth church edifice built on this site. A significant historical artifact within the church is the communion table, believed to be the first used for communion in the Wyoming Valley. This table originates from the “Old Ship Zion,” a 19th-century church that served multiple denominations on Public Square before its demolition in the 1850s.
